Official Re-Opening of Packie Devlin Memorial Park

Home , Breffni Park, Butlersbridge, Castlerahan, Cavan GAA, Devlin (surname), Drumlane

OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

~ 1 ~ CLÁR AN LAE

4.00. Cill Na Sean Rátha V Cill Dalláin

4.30. Exhibition match by Cill Na Sean Rátha juvenile club

4.45. Cill Na Sean Rátha V Cill Dalláin – An Dara Leath

5.15. Cill Na Sean Rátha Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann

6.00. Opening Ceremony performed by Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh

6.45. Parade of county teams

7.00. An Cabhán V An Dún

7.30. Exhibition match by Cill Na Sean Rátha juvenile club

7.45. An Cabhán V An Dún – An Dara Leath

~ 2 ~ CONTENTS

Contents Page Killeshandra GFC Chairman’s Address ...... 4 Cavan County Board Chairman’s AddressKi ...... 5 Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh ...... 6 Today’s Referee ...... 7 Field Development ...... 9 Padraig Ui Dhoibhlin ...... 13 Killeshandra Leaguers – A History ...... 18 Killeshandra Players & Officials ...... 32 Kildallan Players & Officials ...... 33 Cavan Players & Officials ...... 34 Down Players & Officials ...... 35 Cavan & Down Past Encounters – 1959 to 1978 ...... 36 Official Opening of Packie Devlin Memorial Park – 11th July 1982 ...... 41 Stephen King – A Cavan Great ...... 46 All Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg ...... 53 Killeshandra Teams ...... 57 Killeshandra Ladies GFC ...... 61 Killeshandra Scór ...... 67 Killeshandra Officers Down The Years 1960 - 2011 ...... 70 Deceased Club Members ...... 71 Lá Na gClub ...... 72 Killeshandra Leaguers Today ...... 80

~ 3 ~ KILLESHANDRA GFC CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS

Mar Cathaoirleach ar Chill Na Seanrátha tugann sé an-áthas ormfáilite a chur romhaibh ar fad anseo inniu leis an ath- oscailt oifigiúil Pairc Phadraig Ui Dhoibhlin. Ba mhaith liom an deis seo a thapú chunfáilte a chur roimh ár n-imreoirí ar fad atá caite agus oifigigh, árbhfoirne ar cuairt, aíonna agus ár n-aoi speisialta Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh.

As Chairman of Killeshandra it gives me great pleasure to welcome you all here today to the official reopening of Packie Devlin park. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all our past players and officials, our visiting teams, invited guests and our special guest Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh. This is a proud day for us here in Killeshandra. It seemed a daunting task at first and adverse weather in 2008 and 2009 delayed progress for up to twelve months but thankfully we have ended up with a fine facility for the people of our community. It is also a monument to hard work and dedication and co-operation of a small group of people. Even they would be helpless without the backing of the community. I thank everybody who helped in any way. I would like to thank our main contractor Hyland Turf Care Gowna (Michael Hyland) also our main sponsor Anslem Lovett of Cavan Box and all our other sponsors. To the Kildallan club I thank them very much for the use of their facilities over the last two years and to all our neighbouring clubs who allowed us to use their pitch in that period. A special thanks to my fellow committee members who worked so hard to bring this development to a finish.

Since the club was reformed over 50 years ago, there has been a natural change of faces in our community. We see names and faces that have left this world many at a ripe old age and some perhaps too young. We should use these memories as an inspiration for our future achievement. This book will help preserve the memories the bits and pieces that moulded the leaguers into a club of fine tradition. Our young people should take this example to ensure that this tradition will continue.

Mise le Meas,

Padraig MacOireachtaigh, Cathaoirleach.

~ 4 ~ MESSAGE FROM COUNTY BOARD CHAIRMAN

It is a great pleasure for me to be here, with you all, on this very proud day for the Killeshandra club. As we cast our eyes over this splendid ground in this picturesque setting it should be a great source of pride to the people of Killeshandra. It is my firm belief that as an association, the contribution we make to our communities is often understated. What you as a club have done and continue to do for your entire community is invaluable.

I want to compliment your officers for having the vision, and then the strength of conviction to see their dream fulfilled, by providing these superb facilities for the children & adults of the Killeshandra area. I know this didn’t happen over night or by accident. I know it took great sacrifice from all involved be they ticket seller or buyer, officer or club member, player or supporter. As a club you are flourishing on and off the field, I salute and applaud you.

I feel it would be remiss of me in this message not to mention those who contributed to this project but who didn’t get to see its finality. Packie Devlin Park will be a fitting testament to all who have gone before us as indeed it will serve the people of this area for many years to come.

I wish you every success in the future and look forward to spending an enjoyable evening with you all.

Mile Buiochas, Mise le Mais

Thomas O’Raghallaigh Cáthaoirleach Cumann Luthchleas Gael Coiste an Chabhain

~ 5 ~ MÍCHEÁL Ó MUIRCHEARTAIGH

2010 marked the end of an era in Irish sport when Mícheál, at the age of 80, announced his retirement from broadcasting. His first commentary was on a Railway Cup match, as Gaeilge, in 1949 and he enjoyed a career that spanned 62 years in total.

Mícheál hails from Dun Sion, An Daingean, Chontae Ciarraí. He was a teacher by profession until he retired in the 1980’s, thus allowing him to concentrate on his broadcasting duties.

He broadcasted commentaries in English on RTÉ radio from 1956 until his retirement. He also covered All-Ireland Minor Semi-Finals and Finals in both hurling and football in the Irish language on RTÉ television, for over 25 years from the inception of television coverage in 1962.

He is widely described as being a modest and down to earth man by all who know him. His lyrical and infectious commentaries will live long in the memory by all who were privileged to hear them. When you turned on a match that Mícheál was commentating on, you were guaranteed to be mesmerised.

Mícheál’s unique style of interweaving the “cúpla focail” into commentaries helped to keep our national tongue alive in a meaningful way in all our lives. The long list of memorable quotes we have from Mícheál are now part of Irish Folklore.

Killeshandra Leaguers are delighted and honoured to welcome him here today to Pairc Phadraig Ui Dhoibhlin to perform the official opening of our redeveloped grounds. We would like also to take this opportunity to wish Mícheál many happy healthy years in his retirement.

~ 6 ~ TODAY’S REFEREES

KILLESHANDRA V KILDALLAN

Brian Seagrave

Brian is a member of Drumlane Sons of O’Connell G.F.C. and is presently in his fifth year as Chairman of Bord Peil Na Óg. He is currently one of the top referees in Cavan and his abilities in 2007 were recognised when he was named referee of the year. His no nonsense approach to refereeing is held in high regard throughout Cavan.

CAVAN V DOWN

Pat McEneaney

Pat McEneaney hails from Corduff in Monaghan and is brother of current Meath manager Séamus. He is one of the most experienced referees in the business with 4 All Ireland Finals to his credit, 1996 Mayo versus Meath twice 2000 Galway versus Kerry and 2004 Kerry versus Mayo. He has also officiated at 8 International Compromise Rules tests. Pat is one of the most respected officials in the business. His common sense approach to games has earned him the respect of players and spectators alike. We thank Pat for refereeing the Cavan-Down match here today.

~ 7 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-development of their pitch

~ 8 ~ FIELD DEVELOPMENT

Killeshandra Leaguers acquired the present site in 1974 and played their first games here in 1975. The club originally developed the facilities in 1982. In recent times, due to the demands made on the pitch and amenities from senior, underage and ladies teams the club decided to consider a new development.

Development Committee In early 2007 the club executive committee headed by Chairman Pat McGearty decided that a major redevelopment of our grounds was required, a finance committee was established and a decision was made to run a development draw. The draw was launched by then County Board Chairman Philip Smith.

The development committee presented a three phase to a club meeting in early 2007. This proposal involved the development on the existing site of a full size playing pitch, a new training pitch on the site of the old play ground, walking track and development of existing changing rooms. The proposal was ratified at a meeting in spring 2007. See plan outlined below

Development Committee Proposal

~ 9 ~ FIELD DEVELOPMENT

Following many months of very hard work by numerous club members who travelled most of County Cavan, parts of Longford, Leitrim and Fermanagh, selling tickets, a very successful draw was held in October 2008. Together with lottery funding of ?75,000, CLAR funding of E15,000, Ulster Council grant of E15,300? plus generous support from club sponsors and club patrons a total amount of approximately E350,000 will be spent on this development.

Contractors Work commenced in June 2008 but extremely bad weather over two summers prevented much work being done and this delayed the project for one year. The contract for the pitch development and running track was awarded to Hyland Turf Care Gowna. Other contractors were Paddy McNamee who built the Tobermore Brick retaining wall, the erection of fences completed by Sean Brady Engineering Ltd, Tony Scullion who erected the ball stop fence, Sean Shannaghy Plant Hire ground work.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Pat Downey and all of the FÁS employees whose work contributed significantly to this development and to Pauric Loughlin, building surveyor, for his professional advice and help on this project.

The club is very proud of this facility. It must rank as on of the best in Cavan. Much credit is due to Chairman Pat McGearty and his hard working club executive, finance and development committees and also everyone who helped in a voluntary capacity. Hopefully this facility will be a springboard for the future development of our games within our club and the wider community.

~ 10 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the new development of their grounds

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future

~ 11 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to the Leaguers on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 12 ~ PADRAIG UI DHOIBHLIN PACKIE DEVLIN -1909 - 1951

Packie Devlin was a star of Cavan football during the county’s first golden era of the late 20’s and 30’s. He first joined the Cavan panel in 1927 and would go on to play a part in winning the All-Ireland Junior title of that year – Cavan’s first All-Ireland crown. En route to the final they defeated Armagh in the Ulster decider and in the All-Ireland semi-final they overcame Mayo. In the final against Kildare, played on the 3rd of June 1928, the Breffni men emerged victorious by 0-7 to 1-3. Packie played at right half forward on that occasion. Devlin about to score in the However Kildare were to exact revenge later on that year as 1937 All-Ireland final against both counties contested the All-Ireland senior final – the first Kerry – It is widely regarded decider at which the Sam Maguire cup was presented. The as his finest game for Cavan final score on the day was Kildare 2-6 Cavan 2-5. By this stage Devlin was playing at centre half forward a position he held for most of the following decade. The breakthrough for Cavan came in 1933. On the 27th of August they beat Kerry in the All-Ireland semi final in Breffni Park by 1-5 to 0-5, thus denying the Kingdom a chance of completing a unique 5 in a row of All-Ireland titles. In the final against Galway the Breffni men ran out deserved victors by 2-5 to 1-4. On the day Packie contributed two points to Cavan’s final tally. Cavan collected their second All-Ireland in 1935 when Kildare were the opponents. The score line read 3-6 to 2-5. In the 1937 All- Ireland decider Cavan met Kerry and the game ended in a draw. Football followers of the time would state that this was Devlin’s finest performance for Cavan. In the replay however Cavan lost a bruising encounter by 4-4 to 1-7. This defeat marked the end of a great Cavan team and a great era for Cavan football.

Packie Devlin also served his local club, known for a time as Croghan, with great distinction both on and off the field for over 25 years. During the 30’s he helped Croghan win two Junior championships in 1935 and 1939. He also trained the team for a while during these years.

~ 13 ~ PADRAIG UI DHOIBHLIN PACKIE DEVLIN -1909 - 1951

When playing football, Packie was noted for his slight of hand with the ball which left many a famous footballer looking into space. His high side kick from 50 yards out was always sent in with deadly accuracy straight between the posts. Back row (L to R) – J. Gilheaney (President), W. Young, J. Smallhorne, D. Morgan, V. McGovern, M. Dinneny, J.J. Clarke (Secretary), Centre row (L to R) – Captain J.P. Packie Devlin also Murphy (Manager), P. McNamee, P. Brady, T. O’Reilly, W. Connolly, T. O’Reilly (Cornafean), P. Devlin, H. O’Reilly, J. Rahill, H. O’Reilly (Trainer). Front row (L to served his local club, R) – T. Crowe, L. Blessing, P. Phair, J. Smith (Captain), P.Lynch, T. Coyle, M.J. Magee. known for a time as Croghan, with great distinction both on and off the field for over 25 years. During the 30’s he helped Croghan win two Junior championships in 1935 and 1939. He also trained the team for a while during these years.

When playing football, Packie was noted for his slight of hand with the ball which left many a famous footballer looking into space. His high side kick from 50 yards out was always sent in with deadly Front row (L. to R) – Michael Hoey, Paddy McCaffrey, Packie Devlin, John accuracy straight between Prunty. Second row (L. to R) – John Masterson, Mickey Brady, Phil Sexton, Frank Dinneny, Pat Sexton. Back row (L. to R) – John Smith (Chairman), the posts. Paddy Brady, Tommy Connolly, Willie Reilly, Eugene Gallagher, Pat Leddy, Packie Cunningham, Paddy Galligan. Sadly Packie died aged only 42 years on the 8th of November 1951. Perhaps the man is best summed up by tributes paid to him at his funeral. The newspaper “The Irish News” stated, “His death recalls the magnificent Cavan Sextet in attack between 1933 and 1939 namely – DonalDonal Morgan, Pat Devlin, Jack Smallhorne, Paddy Boylan, Louis Blessing and M.J. Magee.

~ 14 ~ PADRAIG UI DHOIBHLIN PACKIE DEVLIN -1909 - 1951

He was regarded as one of the most brilliant tacticians his generation ever seen at Croke Park – gritty, speedy and a deadly marksman in the vicinity of the posts, Pat’s gentlemanly and kindly disposition, both on and off the field, endeared him to everybody. A grand team colleague and faithful friend, his early death will be genuinely regretted by all G.A.A. folk and by a host of friends in private life.”

Another of Packie’s contemporaries declared, “As a footballer he had few equals, his fine physique, his superb fielding and his lengthy accurate drives ranking him as the greatest 40 yards man ever.”

In July 1982 Killeshandra Leaguers acknowledged Packie Devlin the footballer by naming their new football pitch in his honour.

Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam.

Packie Devlin Park before the re-development

~ 15 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 16 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra GFC every success for the future

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch from Sophie & staff

~ 17 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

The first mention of Killeshandra Leaguers is in June 1888 and the following year John P Johnson is listed as the delegate representing Killeshandra on the County Board. In 1889 there were three clubs in the Killeshandra Parish, Arva Davitts, Killeshandra National Leaguers and Cornafean Tom Moronies. • In 1890 the crime branch in Dublin Castle noted the existence of the Killeshandra National Leaguers and that they were “Ribbonmen” i.e. supporters of the Molloy Maguries. • The GAA in Cavan as elsewhere died in 1891 and did not re-emerge until 1900. In 1901 there were two teams in the Parish, Drumanery Emmets and Killeshandra De Wets. • 1903 the GAA was radically reformed in Co. Cavan and Killeshandra Leaguers began to feature as a well run club with a very good team. Players listed in 1906 included Benny Reilly, Paddy Gilronan, Terry Reilly, Joe Gilronan, Thomas Farrelly, John Masterson, Michael Fleming, Pat Reilly, T. Henry. J. McCormick, T. McNabal (McNaboe), B. Leddy, P. Reilly, Willie Mc Clean. • In October 1906 Killeshandra won the Western County Final defeating Ballyconnell First Ulster’s and were to play Kingscourt Sinn Feiner’s who won the Eastern section in the showground’s in Cavan in the County Final. The game was never played as Kingscourt refused to play in Cavan and in • July 1907 the Senior title was awarded to Killeshandra. The Leaguers did not re-affiliate in 1907 in disgust with the handling of the aforementioned affair. • The Leaguers had a shaky existence in the 1910’s and 1920’s but fielded teams in the twenties and produced players like Tom and Paddy Gilronan, John Crotty, Pat and Joe Sexton, Mick and Packie Dinneny and Paddy McCaffery • 1932 marked the beginning of the modern era of the Leaguers and the club re-formed at an AGM held in the Market House. Officers elected were John Smith Chairman, Paddy McCaffery Vice Chairman, Tommy Connolly Secretary and Treasurer. Committee- Pat Sexton, Phil Sexton John Burns, Tommy Gilronan and John Devlin. Packie Devlin was captain of the team with Jim Connolly as vice captain.

• They were also known as Croghan at this time and beat Crubany in the 1935 Junior championship Final ( see photo of team in article on Packie Devlin) • In 1937 the club was suspended after a row with Belturbet • In 1939 Croghan reached their second Junior final and they beat Crubany by a solitary point after a replay. Killeshandra (Croghan) went senior after this but only for one year

~ 18 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

• During the 1940's many good and loyal players served the club. Croghan 1946 team

• In the fifties the Club lapsed again but was still functioning and in 1953 a fund raising game was staged at the Castle field between current and veteran players.

Fund Raising Game in Castle Field 1953 – Veterans V Current players

Current Players Back row (L to R): Stephen Shannon, Noel Fitzpatrick, Gerry Brady, Jim O’Reilly, Brain Fay, Joe Hayes, Gabriel Fitzpatrick, Joe Shannon, Benny O’Reilly. Front row (L to R):Stephen O’Reilly, Paddy O’Reilly, Frank Shannon, Packie Teevan, Tommy Brady, Enda Shannon.

~ 19 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

Fund Raising Game in Castle Field 1953 – Veterans V Current players

Veteran Players Back row (L to R):Peter Brady, John O’Rourke, Eugene Gallagher, Tommy Connolly, Packie Phair, Jimmy Duignan, Séamus Dolan, Benny Fay, Mick Brady. Front row (L to R): Johnny Devlin, Jimmy Kearns, Des Benson, Michael Maguire, John O’Reilly (Drumambry), Pat Leddy, Frank Harrington.

• The club was revived at an AGM in 1960, Charlie Lynch Chairman, Joe Hayes Secretary and Mick King Treasurer. McCann’s Hill was rented from Jack Bell for the year.

Killeshandra Leaguers 1961

Back row (L to R): Junior O’Dowd, Joe Hayes, Tommy Galligan, Cathal Toal, John.P. Murphy, Joe Shannon, Eugene Nealon, Gerry O’Reilly, Noel Brady. Front row (L to R): Michael Kivlehan, Brian Sheridan, Billy Murphy, Paul O’Rourke, Michael O’Reilly, Paddy Sheridan, Stephen O’Reilly, Michael Fay, Charlie O’Rourke, Gabriel Fitzpatrick.

~ 20 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

• July 1907 the Senior title was awarded to Killeshandra. The Leaguers did not re-affiliate in 1907 in disgust with the handling of the aforementioned affair.

• In 1970 Killeshandra won the Junior Championship beating Butlersbridge in the final.

Front row (L to R): Eugene Fitzpatrick (R.I.P.), Mick Fay, Pat Brady, Hugh Reynolds, Tommy Galligan (Captain), John Sweeney, Cecil Rapple, Charlie O’Rourke. Back row (L to R): Pat Reynolds, Brian O’Dowd, Cathal Toal, Paddy Rapple, Paul O’Rourke, Mark Goldrick, Rory Toal, Enda Shannon, John Brady, Brendan Toal, Johnny Devlin (R.I.P.).

• 1973 Killeshandra were defeated in the Intermediate Final by Redhills and there was to follow several lean years at senior level in the club.

• In 1974 the “Rectory Field” was purchased for £8,400.

• On March 16th 1975 the Leaguers played their first match in the “Rectory Field” against Castlerahan. The Leaguers ran out winners on a score-line of 4-4 to 1-12 with John Sweeney getting the first score in the new field, a goal from a penalty. The scorers on the day were; J.Sweeney 1-0, J.Dinneny 2-0, O.Dinneny 1-1, N.Phair 0- 1, H.Reynolds 0-1, P.Boyce 0-1. The team lined out as follows; S,Magarahan, G.Duffy, P.Reynolds. John Phair, J.Sweeney, P.O’Rourke, Jim Phair, John Brady (Capt.), Jim O’Dowd, N.Phair, P.Boyce, J.Dinneny, J.Teevan, H.Reynolds, O.Dinneny. • 1978, 79 and ’80 Killeshandra won three Junior League titles in a row, beating Belturbet in the 1978 final, Drumlane in 1979 and Knockbride in the 1980 final and the Leaguers progressed from here

~ 21 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

1980 Junior League Champions (3 in a row)

Front row (L to R): Tommy Brady, Sean Óg Minagh, Paddy Minagh, John Brady (Captain), Declan Sheridan, Stephen King, Philip O’Reilly, Benny Duffy, Niall Phair. Back row (L to R): – Peter Maguire (R.I.P.) Trainer, Fergus McMenamin, John Martin, Jimmy Phair, Hugh Reynolds, Michael Keenan, Tomás McDermott, Seán McGearty, Cyril Reilly, Brendan Reilly, Pat McGearty, Kevin Sexton, Johnny O’Reilly, Francis (Junior) McKiernan.

• In 1982 Killeshandra Leaguers were promoted to Division 2 and on the 11th July the Club opened its new playing pitch and clubhouse- Pairc Phadraig Ui Dhoibhlin and this was to be the spring board for a golden era for the Leaguers.

Killeshandra G.F.C. Officers 1982

Left to right: Charlie O’Rourke, treasurer; Séamus Cuddy, assistant treasurer; Pat Brady, President; Joe Hayes, secretary; Enda Shannon, vice-chairman; Paddy McKeon, President; Joe Braiden, assistant secretary; Tomás McDermott, youth officer. Inset: Left, John Brady, chairman; Right, Fergus McMenamin, Irish officer.

~ 22 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

Killeshandra Park Development Committee 1982

Front row (L to R): Charlie O’Rourke, Séamus Cuddy, Tomás McDermott, Enda Shannon, Dermot O’Connor, John Brady, Philip O’Reilly. Back row (L to R): Stephen King, Jim Reilly, Phelim Cox (R.I.P), Joe Braiden, Mickey McGearty. Missing from photo, Peter Maguire (R.I.P), Joe Hayes and Andy Feeney.

Killeshandra team at the opening of the field in 1982

Back row (L to R): – Tomás McDermott, John McKeown, Seán Feeney, Brendan O’Reilly, Johnny O’Reilly, Seán McGearty, Junior McKiernan, Michael Keenan, Pat Brady, Stephen King, Séamus McDermott (RIP), Tommy Brady, Mick Fay (Manager). Front row (L to R): – Jimmy Phair, Anthony Phair, Declan Sheridan, Kenneth Teevan, Paddy Brady, John Sweeney (Capt), Declan Feeney, Ronan Flanagan, Seán Óg Minagh, John Martin, Pat McGearty.

• The Leaguers won the Junior Championship in 1983 defeating Kill in the final.

~ 23 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

1983 Junior Champions

Back Row (L to R): Christy Woods, Peter Brady, Shane Devine, Brendan O’Reilly, Thomas McDermott, Sean McGearty, Sean Feeney, Stephen King, Paul O’Dowd, Tom McKiernan, John Brady, Mick Fay. Front Row (L to R): Des Flanagan, Tom Grey, John Sweeney, Pat McGearty, Emmitt Minagh, Paddy Phair, Declan Feeney, Bernard Brady, Ronan Flanagan, Benny Duffy, John Martin. Inset (L to R): Francis (Junior) McKiernan, Johnny O’Reilly, Philip O’Reilly, Fr. Hurley, Tommy Brady, Neil Phair, Paddy Minagh.

• In 1984 The Killeshandra Leaguers gained promotion to Division 1 after defeating Drung in the Division 2 Final

1984 Division 2 League Winners

Back row (L to R): Christy Woods (Selector), Winston Morrison, Junior McKiernan, John Sweeney, P.O’Reilly, Tomás McDermott, Stephen King, Brendan O’Reilly, Seán Feeney, Tom Downes, Shane Devine, Tony McDonnell, Mick Fay (Manager) Front row (L to R): Peter Brady, Des Flanagan, John Martin, Kieran Barry-Murphy, Bernard Brady, Johnny O’Reilly, Ronan Flanagan, Declan Feeney, Pat McGearty, Tom McKiernan.

~ 24 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

Killeshandra Leaguers Centenary Year (1984) Committee & Officials

Back row (L to R): Paddy Phair, Neil Phair, Tom Devine, Johnny McGearty (RIP), Michael McGearty, Séamus McDermott (RIP), Seán Magarahan, Christy Woods, Tomás McDermott Front row (L to R): Jim O’Reilly, Mick Fay, Philip O’Reilly, Stephen King (Snr), Rev. Colm Hurley, Peter Corr (RIP), Jimmy Farrelly (RIP), Philip Sheridan.

• In 1984 The Killeshandra Leaguers gained promotion to Division 1 after defeating Drung in the Division 2 Final

1986 Intermediate Champions

Back row (L to R): Michael McGearty, Mick Fay (Manager), Andy Feeney (County Secretary), Shady O’Reilly, John Brady, Brendan O’Reilly, Des Flanagan, Tom Downes, Paul O’Dowd, Seán McGearty, Tomás McDermott, Shane Devine, Junior McKiernan, Johnny O’Reilly, Seán Feeney, Peter Brady, Tony McDonnell, Charlie Shanley (Selector), Christy Woods (Selector). Front row (L to R): Philip O’Reilly, Sean Magarahan, John Martin, Tomas McKiernan, Connor Flanagan, Harry O’Reilly (RIP), Paddy Minagh, Stephen King, Bernard Brady, P. O’Reilly, Declan Feeney, Pat McGearty, Kieran Barry-Murphy, Gerry Sheridan, Nudie McGovern.

• In 1990 Killeshandra won the Div 2a league- 2 in a row, when defeating near neighbours Cornafean in the final.

~ 25 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

• 1991 Killeshandra Leaguers won their second Intermediate Championship title defeating Munterconnaught in the final.

1991 Intermediate Champions

Back row (L to R): Declan Feeney, Emmett O’Shannon, Seán McGearty, Alan Brady, Junior McKiernan, Patrick Duffy, Tom Downes, Ronan Fitzpatrick, Coman Flanagan, Kenneth O’Connor. Middle row (L to R): Ronan Flanagan, Martin McKiernan, Connor Flanagan, Stephen King, Pat McGearty, Seán Feeney (Capt), Ollie Fay, Fergal O’Reilly, Mícheál Murphy, Kieran Fitzpatrick. Front row (L to R): Joe Brady, Kieran McGovern, Tom Gray, Finbar O’Reilly, Bernard Rodgers, P. O’Reilly

• In 1992 Killeshandra Leaguers reached the quarter final of the Senior championship losing narrowly to eventual winners Ramor United.

• 1993 saw the start of the decline in the Leaguers fortunes with relegation to Division 2 and in • 1996 they were relegated to Division 3

• 1997 heralded a change in fortune for the Leaguers with victory over Drumgoon in the Division 3 League Final and promotion to Division 2

• Relegation to Division 3 returned in 2001 and the club remained here until 2007.

~ 26 ~ KILLESHANDRA LEAGUERS – A HISTORY

• 2007 the Leaguers won the Junior Championship which was unique, in that 3 teams from the parish competed in the semi-finals. The Leaguers defeated Shannon Gaels in the final on score line of 11 points to 8. They also won promotion and the Division 3 League title after a replay beating Cavan Gaels convincingly with a very youthful side. • In 2007 the club also competed in the Ulster Junior Championship for the first time defeating St. Mary’s Ahoghill (Antrim) in the first round before losing the semi final narrowly to the Rock (Tyrone) in Clones.

2007 Junior Champions

Front row (L. to R) – Glen Shanley, Eamon O’Reilly, Mícháel Murphy, Cillian O’Reilly, Dara Tighe, Justin Hayes, Shane Murphy, Adie Burns (Captain with mascot Dara O’Reilly), Cyril O’Reilly, Ciarán Owens, Rory Braiden, Seán McKiernan, John Sweeney, Sven Johnson. Back row (L. to R) – Tom Downes (Joint Manager), Karl O’Reilly, Junior McKiernan (Joint Manager), Austin Fitzpatrick, Colm Duffy, Daniel Luby, Declan McKiernan, Tomás O’Reilly, Damien Higgins, Adrian Martin, Tomasi Budyneck, John Sorahan, Gary Fay, Stephen King (Joint Manager).

• 2009 The Leaguers returned to Division 1 where they remain at present and with the talent available and the commitment of the players the club is expecting more success on the playing field.

~ 27 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 28 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 29 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future

~ 30 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 31 ~ MEET THE TEAMS

Killeshandra Players & Officials

CILL NA SEAN RÁTHA

1. Bainisteoir Junior McKiernan 2 & Tom Downes

3 Mickey Murphy

6 16

7 17

8 18

9 19

10 20

11 21

12 22

13 23

14 24

15 25

~ 32 ~ MEET THE TEAMS

Kildallan Players & Officials

KILDALLA

1. Bainisteoir ??????????????????? 2

6 16

7 17

8 18

9 19

10 20

11 21

12 22

13 23

14 24

15 25

~ 33 ~ MEET THE TEAMS

Cavan Players & Officials

AN CABHÁN

1. Bainisteoir Val Andrews & Terry Hyland 2 Stephen King 3

6 16

7 17

8 18

9 19

10 20

11 21

12 22

13 23

14 24

15 25

~ 34 ~ MEET THE TEAMS

Down Players & Officials

AN DÚN

1. Bainisteoir James McCartan 2

6 16

7 17

8 18

9 19

10 20

11 21

12 22

13 23

14 24

15 25

~ 35 ~ PAST ENCOUNTERS IN ULSTER FINALS

Cavan & Down Past Encounters – 1959 to 1978

Cavan and Down are two of Ulster’s most decorated Counties having won 10 All Ireland Finals and Numerous Ulster Championships between them. Their greatest period of Ulster dominance came between 1959 and 1969 when they met in 8 Ulster finals each being successful four times. Down also went on to win three All Irelands during this period. 1959 Ulster Final: Down 2-16 Cavan 0-07 DOWN: E.McKay, George Lavery, L.Murphy, CAVAN: Brian O’Reilly, N.O’Reilly, Gabriel P.Rice, K.Mussen (c), J.McCartan, K.O’Neill, Joe Kelly, Mickey Brady, H.Gaffney, T.Maguire (c), Lennon, P.O’Hagan, Sean O’Neill, J.Carey, J.McDonnell, Hugh Barney O’Donoghue, P.Doherty, K.Denvir, T.Hadden, Brian Morgan. K.McIntyre, Con Smith, B.Gallagher, J.Conaty, Subs: Dan McCartan for O’Neill, O’Neill for Jimmy Sheridan, C.Gallagher, J.Brady. Subs: Denvir. Jimmy Meehan for N.O’Reilly, Tommy Galligan for Maguire, Maguire for Galligan.

1960 Ulster Final: Down 3-07 Cavan 1-08 DOWN: E.McKay, George Lavery, L.Murphy, CAVAN: Brian O’Reilly, J.Meehan, G Kelly, P.Rice, K.Mussen (c), D.McCartan, K.O’Neill, M.Brady, H.Gaffney, T.Maguire, T.Galligan, H.B. P.J.McElroy, J.Lennon, Sean O’Neill, J.McCartan, O’Donoghue, J.McDonnell (c), J.Sheridan, Mal P.Doherty, T.Hadden, P.O’Hagan, Brian Shiels, Con.Smith, Seamus Conaty, J.Brady, Morgan. Subs: J.Carey for McElroy, Eamon C.Gallagher. Sub: P.Carolan for Sheridan. Lundy for Lennon.

1962 Ulster Final: Cavan 3-06 Down 0-05 CAVAN: Sean Óg Flood, G.Kelly, PJ.McCaffrey, DOWN: E.McKay, George Lavery, L.Murphy, M.Brady, T.Morris, T.Maguire, J.McDonnell (c), P.Rice, P.Hamill, D.McCartan, P.O’Hagan, Ray Carolan, Tom Lynch, C.Smith, H.B. J.Carey, J.Lennon, Sean O’Neill, J.McCartan, O’Donoghue, Jimmy Stafford, Seamus P.Doherty (c), T.Hadden, P.J.McElroy, Brian McMahon, C.Gallagher, J.Brady. Sub: P.J. Morgan. Subs: K.O’Neill for Hamill, K.Mussen O’Gorman for Kelly. for Carey.

1964 Ulster Final: Cavan 2-10 Down 1-10 CAVAN: P.J.Gorman, G.Kelly, PJ.McCaffrey, DOWN: P.McAlinden, George Lavery (c), T.Morris, Frank Kennedy, T.Maguire, L.Murphy, K.O’Neill, P.O’Hagan, T.O’Hare, J.McDonnell (c), Ray Carolan, Tom Lynch, P.Hamill, Larry Powell, D.McCartan, J.J.O’Reilly, H.B. O’Donoghue, C.Gallagher, B.Johnston, J.Lennon, P.Doherty, S.O’Neill, Mattie Cahill, Jimmy O’Donnell, J.Stafford. J.McCartan, V.Kane. Subs: Jackie Fitsimons for Sub: Peter Pritchard. Lavery, B.Morgan for O’Hare.

~ 36 ~ PAST ENCOUNTERS IN ULSTER FINALS

1965 Ulster Final: Down 3-05 Cavan 1-08 DOWN: P.McAlinden, Seamus Doyle, CAVAN: John Reilly, G.Kelly, Tony Keyes, L.Murphy, T.O’Hare, J.Lennon, D.McCartan, T.Morris, Brian Kennedy, T.Maguire (c), Donal P.O’Hagan, George Glynn, L.Powell, Felix O’Grady, R. Carolan, T.Lynch, John Joe O’Reilly, Quigley, V.Kane, P.Doherty, J.Fitzsimons, J.O’Donnell, C.Gallagher, S.McMahon, Danny S.O’Neill (c), B.Johnston. Subs: Colm Curtis Brady, Phil Murray. for Powell.

1967 Ulster Final: Cavan 2-12 Down 0-08 CAVAN: Seamus Gallagher, Andy McCabe, DOWN: P.McAlinden, Brendan Sloane, G.Kelly, P.Pritchard, Pat Tinnelly, R.Carolan, L.Murphy, T.O’Hare, Ray McConville, Brendan Murtagh, Brendan Donoghue, T.Lynch, D.McCartan (c), L.Powell, G.Glynn, J.Lennon, Steve Duggan, J.J.O’Reilly, Michael Greenan, John Murphy, C.McAlarney, John Purdy, J.O’Donnell, C.Gallagher (c), P.Murray. J.McCartan, S.O’Neill, V.Kane. Subs: Ray Carville for Murphy, J.Fitzsimons for Kane, Brian McVeigh for Sloane.

Action from the Cavan v Down 1967 Ulster Final in Clones

~ 37 ~ PAST ENCOUNTERS IN ULSTER FINALS

1968 Ulster Final: Down 0-16 Cavan 1-08 DOWN: Danny Kelly, B.Sloane, D.McCartan, CAVAN: Pat Lyons, G.Kelly, B Donoghue, T.O’Hare, R.McConville, Willie Doyle, J.Lennon P.Pritchard, P.Tinnelly, T.Lynch, A.McCabe, (c), C.McAlarney, Jim Milligan, Mickey Cole, Fergus McCauley, Hugh Newman, Michael Dickie Murphy, J.Murphy, P.Doherty, S.O’Neill, Greenan, J.J.O’Reilly, P.Murray, J.O’Donnell, J.Purdy. C.Gallagher (c), S.Duggan. Sub: B.Murtagh for Newman.

1969 Ulster Final: Cavan 2-13 Down 2-06 CAVAN: Pat Lyons, G.Kelly, B Donoghue, DOWN: Danny Kelly, B.Sloane, D.McCartan, A.McCabe, P.Tinnelly, T.Lynch, Enda McGowan, T.O’Hare, R.McConville, Willie Doyle, J.Lennon, R.Carolan, Hugh Newman, S.Duggan, C.McAlarney, Jim Milligan, Mickey Cole, J.J.O’Reilly, Hugh McInerney, Gene Cusack, J.Murphy, J.Fitzsimons, Peter Rooney, S.O’Neill Declan Coyle, C.Gallagher (c). (c), P.Doherty. Sub James Morgan.

1978 Ulster Final: Down 2-19 Cavan 2-12 DOWN: Martin McCabe, B.Sloan, M.Turley, CAVAN: A.Elliott, F.Dolan, D.Dalton, J.J.Martin, Michael Sands, C.Digney, Brendan Toner, John D.Meade, O.Brady, E.McGowan (c), A.King, McCartan, C.McAlarney (c), Liam Austen, O.Martin, Tony Brady, Paddy McNamee, Ray B.Gardner, M.Cunningham, Ronnie Matthews, Cullivan, O.Leddy, Donal Donohue, Mark Joe Byrne, P.Rooney, Jarlath Digney. Subs Goldrick. Subs K.O’Keeffe for King, S.Leddy for Emmett McGivern for Matthews, Tommy Cullivan. McGovern for Toner, Pat Murtagh for McCartan.

~ 38 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 39 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC every success for the future on the re-opening of their pitch

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers every success with the re-opening of their pitch

~ 40 ~ OFFICIAL OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK – 11TH JULY 1982

~ 41 ~ OFFICIAL OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK – 11TH JULY 1982

~ 42 ~ OFFICIAL OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Mr. Paddy Buggy President of the G.A.A. officially opening The Packie Devlin Memorial Park Killeshandra. Also in picture front row: Very Rev, T. Canon McCauley P.P.; Most Rev. Dr. F. McKiernan Bishop of Kilmore; Mr. John Wilson. T.D., Minister for Transport, Posts and Telegraphs; Mrs. Lena Henderson, sister of the late Packie Devlin; Mr. Seámus Dolan Co.C.; Mr. Phil Smyth, Vice-Chairman of the Ulster Council G.A.A.; Mr. Tom Fitzpatrick T.D. At back from left: Andy Feeney Cavan Co. Secretary; Mr. Philip O’Reilly, Park Development Committee and Mr. John Brady, Chairman Killeshandra G.F.C.

~ 43 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

~ 44 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-development of their pitch

~ 45 ~ STEPHEN KING – A CAVAN GREAT

When Pairc Phadraig Ui Dhoibhlin was opened in 1982 a book was published to mark the official opening and in that book there was an article title “A Rising Star”, this article was about Stephen as a young footballer already marked out as having the potential to play at the highest level in the sport.

This was very perceptive as he went on to deliver on the expectations culminating in him captaining Cavan to an Ulster title in 1997- seen below is Stephen raising the Anglo Celt Cup in Clones on Sunday 20th July.

Stephen wore the Cavan jersey for the first time as an under 16 in 1978 and went on to play minor in 1979 and 1980. He played Under 21 county football between 1979 and 1982. He made his senior debut against Meath in a challenge game in Kells on the 22nd September 1980, he then played two weeks later against Donegal in the National League in Breffni Park. Stephen missed the 1981 Ulster Championship through injury but in 1982 he started a 16 year involvement with Cavan in the Ulster Championship. He played in the 1983 Ulster Final defeat to Donegal.

He was a member of the winning McKenna Cup team in 1988, won Cavan Supporters Club player of the year awards in 1991 and 1996, he was a member of the Ulster Railway winning cup team in 1992. He also represented Ireland in the compromise series against Australia in 1987 but in 1997 his greatest achievement was as stated above captaining Cavan to the Ulster title and the scenes in Clones will be long remembered when he lifted the cup and said “ People of Cavan, the Anglo Celt Cup is coming home”. Many media commentators admired and highlighted his abilities and as Jimmy Magee the sports commentator said “Stephen King brought class to a couple of decades of Cavan teams and he fully deserved his coronation at Clones”

~ 46 ~ STEPHEN KING – A CAVAN GREAT

On Monday 21st July Stephen and his team-mates brought the Cup to his home club Killeshandra and the town was thronged with people for the occasion, bonfires were lit on the route into the town to welcome the team.

Pictured below is a section of the crowd in the town that evening

Killeshandra welcomes home Stephen, Cavan and The Anglo Celt Cup

Stephen was an all round sportsman and a gentleman on and off the field, his high fetching and his charging runs lifted his team mates and the fans also, his worth to Cavan was described very well by Fr. Dan Gallogly when he wrote “When King played well, Cavan played well”

Many memories of that night will remain with the people of Killeshandra but one lasting memory was to see Stephen sit alongside double All Ireland winner Packie Phair a resident of Killeshandra who played on the winning Cavan teams in 1933 and 1935.

~ 47 ~ STEPHEN KING – A CAVAN GREAT

Two Cavan Greats from Two Generations – Stephen and Packie

25th August 1997 – All Ireland Semi-Final – Cavan Vs Kerry. Stephen King Leads Cavan in Pre-Match Parade.

While Stephen was starring for Cavan he never forgot his Club and he was an inspirational leader and motivator in helping the team win the Junior Championship in 1983 and also when the Leaguers won two Intermediate titles in 1986 and 1991. His true loyalty and commitment to the Leaguers was epitomised in 1986 when he cut short his honeymoon to lead the Leaguers to victory against Cuchullains in the intermediate final.

When the time came to hang up his playing boots he went into the managerial side of the sport and was joint manager with Killeshandra when they won the Junior Championship and Junior League double in 2007. He now is a selector with the Cavan senior team and if his attributes with regard to commitment, passion and sheer will to win are taken on board then success cannot be far away.

~ 48 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

~ 49 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra Leaguers GFC every success for the future

~ 50 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Wishing Killeshandra every success with the re-opening of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 51 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

~ 52 ~ ALL IRELAND FÉILE PEIL NA NÓG

Féile Peil na nÓg is a national festival of Gaelic football for boys and girls under 14 years of age. It was first held in Cavan in 1982, the brainchild of Fintan Tierney of Butlersbridge. Féile An Cabhán 1982 saw a total of 40 teams participate, 20 of whom were from other counties. It consisted of two boys divisions only – Girls first participated in 1994.

Each year approximately 25,000 boys and girls from each of the 32 counties, and some teams from the UK, Europe and USA, participate in Féile. A preliminary competition is held in each county for the right to represent the county at the Féile finals. The winning club then travels to the host county, where they are hosted by one of the clubs in that county.

Féile Peil na nÓg places great emphasis and importance on proper participation, presentation, punctuality and sportsmanship. Féile involves the whole community, clubs, schools, social and cultural groups, families, civic and religious authorities. It is recognised by the GAA as a major festival of great importance for the promotion of football among the youth of our country.

In 2008 Féile Peil na nÓg returned to Cavan and Killeshandra for the first time since 1984. Killeshandra fielded both Boys and Girls teams in the competition. The Leaguers hosted St. Patrick’s Wicklow Boys and Warwickshire Girl’s teams. Féile Peil na nÓg proved to be an enjoyable weekend for all involved, and although neither of our teams were successful on the field our girls did pick

Killeshandra Féile Team On Parade In Cavan

~ 53 ~ ALL IRELAND FÉILE PEIL NA NÓG up an award for Best Presented Cavan team, and Killeshandra’s Conor Mc Gearty reached the skills final, narrowly losing out on the top prize.

Cathal ORourke R.I.P. and Collette McGearty acted as Féile officers over the weekend and with Una Feeney (Juvenile Chairperson) and Blaithin Higgins (Juvenile Secretary) organised a very enjoyable weekend. Killeshandra’s Patricia O’Reilly acted as Cavan Féile Peil na nÓg Secretary.

During the course of the week Scoil Bhríde was visited by Aaron Kiernan(Armagh) Ross Munnley(Laois) and Jason Sherlock(Dublin) also Ladies GAA President Gearldine Giles among others. The Town Parade and opening ceremony was very entertaining. A BBQ and disco were held on Saturday night for all involved in the area over the weekend.

Féile Peil na nÓg 2008 promotional tour visits Killeshandra N.S.

FÉILE PEIL NA NÓG HOST COUNTIES

Cavan 1982, 1983, 1984, 2008 Clare 1999 Cork 1985, 1986 Dublin 2000 Kildare 1987, 1988, 2009 Tipperary 2001 Galway 1989, 1990, 2003 Carlow 2002 Meath 1991, 1992 Tyrone 2004 Kerry 1993, 1994 Limerick 2005 Mayo 1995, 1996 Wicklow 2006 Donegal 1997, 1998 Leitrim 2007

~ 54 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 55 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-development of their pitch

~ 56 ~ KILLESHANDRA TEAMS s 0 1 U d s , g s d f s 8 g r - U L , k c s a B 6 U

~ 57 ~ KILLESHANDRA TEAMS F r o n B t a r c o k w L - L R - R : J : o P e a t O r i ’ c H k a T n i e l o r n n , a P n a , M u l a C r k l a N i l , u L l u t y k , e D B a e r v r i e s n , R O u ’ a H i r i a F n i l t o U z n p , a 1 J t o r 2 r i c d k a s , n E , M o i U n a n B n 1 r i a n 4 d g y , , s M R i y c a h n a e B l r O a d ’ R y , e B i l l i l y l , O C ’ i H a n a n C l o o m n , i s P k a e d y r , a J i a g m T i i g e h T e u , l l L y i a , m D a D r r i e n n n e C n u y s a c k .

~ 58 ~ KILLESHANDRA TEAMS , n r o o l n n a o C H ’ , y O n e e o n J n , i y l D l s e r e r a m F a J n , a n e o s D r , e s t r s e a d l M a C e o b J e , l h a t i C , m n S a r d i o r n e o h C S , y s . n . n i m y a g e m n g i n o e s e s T H l e , i r n 8 w G o o S n l 1 n o n g h i a C o a U J , r H ’ , s d r , k a O e c i P s d , n l n y a a l n i 6 l i a C C J e , 1 r y R n o ’ n a n i e U O o C n C n i , y D t r a m e a i G L , c n o M s r r e o t n s o a C M , y e i e d n d e E e , e h w t S a r n G a n c o M R : n e R r - r L a - D w : o R - R L k t c n a o B r F

~ 59 ~ KILLESHANDRA TEAMS D B a D A m e C c i K e l a n M r n o M i w M d c d c L C l K - e a i R e r u o r : l n , P w a K e n t L C i l e - l ( i r c a R u p B n : t r C O ) r a , F h d r ’ S r r R y o h i e , e s n a t M i t l o n n l y i e p r c , o I h t h M n M w e a s r u e a e S r O l r L t p k - M e L ’ h R D S - y u : R h n o , r D : a w p K S K n a i h y h d n n i o y l a e , e n o , n r D y n C a r D e a n , y F u O v A r l a O f i i y l l f d ’ a n R y w R n n , n D e e e G i , o B i l d n A l l l h l r y s e y a a , , e n , d r J A r J J o u t y S o d u n y n , h h r , C i i a B n o D a n o n r r n B a a l l M m e i r d a B r y o x y a c u , D t , g r e K r K n C u h r i s a , f o e T , f r R t r n y i l J n g o u o , O e a h A n s r n e t ’ a d C a R i , , n n r e T a R i m a o i l K H o l d n l m e y r e a y a , M r y r s D C e B n w , a o s o r C s r , e n w , t o J i i T o o i d n n n o r t h i , e o n m S n P s h r , m . a a S S H t s e w i r i t i m a g O h c e n g k , e ’ i R B n n M K e a a s e i i c , n r y l K l r n E g . y y i o , , e a F m D F r l n i y a n o g a n n b n n i n a e e , O r l A r r ’ L u R u R s s u b e t d i y i n l d , l y K F e , i n e t C v , z e i p C n i a n h t M r S r i i s w c c t k y K e , e i R e n e r e n i l y a l , y n , ,

~ 60 ~ KILLESHANDRA TEAMS , y l . l y i e d a R ’ r B O a a r i c a i i r C t , a l i P a , l y C e a n l e o e c F i a N r , u y a e L n , e e e e F t n h E m c a i M N h , y m t a r i a N e , G n m c a g M a i l l e . e t u n i a t M T K r , a h y r l M l m e a i n o K e i N r d , a a n g K e n , i n r e i i K S a , a S h s s P s e i l y s n e a e e e H M l i i , e l A l n i , d n y w l a d a o a O J r L , e B g n i a n t l i h o s r m n a a e t l C a F e , N r y h f g f r a u n D u o r d B a C , e y n i e S n , e r e e w h c S t e e l l i F S , a y h l l s i a e S R ’ , y l O l i d e a R e e n i n i S l : e R C - : L - L w o w r o t R n k o r c F a B

~ 61 ~ KILLESHANDRA LADIES GFC ? C ? ? s u d f r g d r f f e f j f n ; l a t s j d G f ; a j i f ; r ’ k l s d s a / U . f k j a n d f d u ; e j q r f o e A r k g c l / e k m T a s d e l o a f l f m j s d l s f k d ; o s k f s d

~ 62 ~ KILLESHANDRA LADIES GFC d s f k s o ; d k f s l d s j m f l f a o l e d s a T m k e / l c g k r A e o f r q j e ; u d f d n a j k f . U / a s d s l k ’ r ; f i j a ; f G d j s t a l ; n f j f e f f r d g r f d u s ? ? C ?

~ 63 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 64 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

~ 65 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 66 ~ KILLESHANDRA SCÓR

Killeshandra Scór was founded nearly 34 years ago in October 1977. With such a wide and long established tradition of Irish music, song and dance in Killeshandra it was inevitable that Scór would generate a keen interest.

Since then Killeshandra has been actively involved in both Scór na nÓg and Scór Sinsear annual competitions. The club has been successful in many county finals in all eight disciplines – reaching Ulster finals on many occasions and being crowned Ulster champions in Rince Fóirne, Ceol Uirlise, Nuachleas and Tráth na gCeist.

History was made for club and county with the winning of the Novelty act in the Scór na nÓg All Ireland final in Limerick in 1982. This was county Cavan’s first All Ireland victory in Scór.

All-Ireland Champions 1982 – Scór Na nÓg Novelty Act

Left to Right: Martina Tiernan, Declan Feeney, Majella McDermott, Ronan Flanagan.

Club Cill Na Sean Rátha is still a vibrant and active participant in Scór, this year taking part in Scór na nÓg and Scór Sinsear with the Senior Seit emerging as winners of the county title.

The committee and members of Killeshandra Scór wish the Club every success with their new development and look forward to many more years of participation and enjoyment in Scór.

~ 67 ~ KILLESHANDRA SCÓR

Presentation to Scór Ulster Champions 2001 – Rince Fóirne by Killeshandra GFC Chairman Tom McKiernan

Back row (l to r): Pat McGearty, Dónal O’Reilly, Mary Duffy, Aisling Gallagher, Sinéad Duffy, Elaine Duffy, Tom McKiernan, Ailís Kelly, Thelma Kelly, Maura Fitzpatrick, Gavin McDermott, Mathew Keaney, Helena King. Front row (l to r): Sandra McDermott, Sineád Duffy, Rosaleen Peake (Dancing Teacher), Elaine Woods, Angela McDermott, Imelda Fay. Missing from picture Ann O’Reilly.

Scór Ulster Champions 2003 – Ceol Uirlise

Deirdre O’Reilly, Anne Smith, Paddy McDermott (Chairman Cavan County Scór), Dónal O’Reilly, Elaine Duffy, Ailís Kelly.

~ 68 ~ KILLESHANDRA SCÓR

Scór Ulster Champions 2001 – Rince Fóirne

Back row (Dancers L to R): Sinéad Duffy, Elaine Duffy, Ann O’Reilly, Ailís Kelly, Angela McDermott, Elaine Woods, Aisling Gallagher, Sinéad Duffy. Front row (Musicians L to R): Brian McCaffrey, Mathew Keaney, Dónal O’Reilly, Paul Duffy.

Present Day Scór Members

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~ 69 ~ KILLESHANDRA OFFICERS DOWN THE YEARS 1960 - 2011

Years Cathaoirleach Rúnaí Cisteoir 1960-1982 Charlie Lynch (Rip) Joe Hayes Mick King (Rip) Benny Fitzpatrick Frank McGoohan Charlie O’Rourke Peter Maguire (Rip) Andy Feeney Micheal O’Reilly John Brady John Brady Andy Feeney Joe Hayes Due to the lack of official records the above lists may not be conclusive. We apologise for any omissions. Year Cathaoirleach Rúnaí Cisteoir 1982 John Brady Joe Hayes Charlie O’Rourke 1983 Charlie O’Rourke Joe Hayes Jim O’Reilly 1984 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Jim O’Reilly/Peter Corr (Rip) 1985 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Jim O’Reilly/Peter Corr (Rip) 1986 Micheal McGearty Philip O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1987 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1988 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1989 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1990 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1991 Stephen King (Snr) Philip O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1992 Stephen King (Snr) Tom Downes Peter Corr (Rip) 1993 Stephen King (Snr) Mícheál O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1994 Stephen King (Snr) Mícheál O’Reilly Peter Corr (Rip) 1995 Stephen King (Snr) Joe Braiden Peter Corr (Rip) 1996 Declan Woods Joe Braiden Peggy Martin 1997 Declan Woods Ollie Sheridan Peggy Martin/Helena King 1998 Tom McKiernan Ollie Sheridan Una Feeney/Helena King 1999 Tom McKiernan Pat McGearty Una Feeney/Helena King 2000 Tom McKiernan Pat McGearty ? 2001 Tom McKiernan Donagh O’Reilly Una Feeney/John Sweeney 2002 Tom McKiernan Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/John Sweeney 2003 Ollie Sheridan Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/John Burns 2004 Ollie Sheridan Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/John Burns 2005 Ollie Sheridan Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/Tom McKiernan 2006 Ollie Sheridan Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/Tom McKiernan 2007 Pat McGearty Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/Tom McKiernan 2008 Pat McGearty Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/Tom McKiernan 2009 Pat McGearty Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/Tom McKiernan 2010 Pat McGearty Donagh O’Reilly Cathal O’Rourke (Rip)/Peggy Martin 2011 Pat McGearty Donagh O’Reilly Tom McKiernan/Ciaran Burns

~ 70 ~ DECEASED CLUB MEMBERS

Since the original opening of our field in 1982 we have lost some loyal Leaguers and our thoughts and sympathies are with their families especially on club occasions like this. In particular in the last 12 months we have lost two club presidents, Paddy Smith and Jimmy Farrelly.

Paddy was a long time supporter of the Leaguers, a man big in stature and big in heart, it was always a pleasure to meet Paddy especially after the Leaguers were successful on the playing fields and his spirit and support will always be felt when the Leaguers take the field of play - Ar dheis De go rabh a anam.

Jimmy Farrelly was an avid supporter of the Leaguers and as a younger man his car was used to transport players to games. He loved to see the Leaguers been successful and even when ill in hospital in 2007; it was such a delight to see his reaction when the Junior Championship cup was brought into to him in the hospital. A resolute attendee at every AGM he would always voice an opinion, his presence like that of all deceased members will always be remembered at club gatherings and functions.

We also lost a very prominent member of our committee, Cathal O’Rourke, this man lived for the Club, he was a hard working officer and a vibrant lively influence across all areas in the club.

He helped train the underage teams, was a former senior player and a manager of our junior team as well as a player. He also was an active member of Scór and was always first to volunteer for the novelty act when the Senior Scór events were announced. He was treasurer of the club for 8 years and was an instrumental part of the team that has brought the facilities here today to fruition. The memories of Cathal are many but one would have to recall his sheer delight when the Leaguers won the Junior Championship, Division 3 League and promotion to Division 2 and then to Division 1, he would always say- “it will be great to open the field as a senior division 1 team”. His talents were numerous and song writing was a particularly strong one, the song he penned in honour of the Junior Championship victory will always be with us and to recall him singing it at our celebrations in 2007 will always be special.

To the wider G.A.A. community he was known as Cathal but to us Leaguers we knew him simply as “Rourkie”, a friend sadly missed. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues. - Go rabh sonas na blath air.

~ 71 ~ LÁ NA GCLUB

The 10th of May 2009 was chosen as Lá na gClub, a day where local clubs were at the centre of the 125 years celebrations and Killeshandra Leaguers celebrated the day by involving the whole community in our Celebrations

• We organised a schools art competition for schools I and 2 – the Title of the competition was “The GAA in our community”. A huge number of entries were received and these were posted on the club room walls for all to see.

• A mass was celebrated in St. Brigid's Chapel with the GAA and the Club prominent in all aspects of the service. The Scór musicians provided beautiful traditional music throughout the service and the gifts carried to the altar reflected the ethos and culture of the organisation as a whole.

• Readings and prayers including the Irish Language were read by club members

• All adult members and children turned up to the Church in the Club colours and this was a sight to behold

• After the Mass there was a photographic exhibition in the Club rooms with an array of past and present photographs on show, this generated a lot of interest and talking point.

• Tomás O’Raghaillaigh gave a talk on the history of the GAA outlining where the games originated and how they developed. This was a most interesting talk and the amount of time and work given by Tomas to this was greatly appreciated.

• Refreshments were served and many thanks to all who helped with providing them on the day.

~ 72 ~ LÁ NA GCLUB

PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION

~ 73 ~ LÁ NA GCLUB

SCHOOLS ART COMPETITION

~ 74 ~ AN HISTORIC DAY FOR THE LEAGUERS

Whilst the opening of our new pitches and clubhouse are significant events in the history of our Club another very significant event is happening in Croke Park tomorrow 1st May.

Cavan take on Galway in the Under 21 football final and three members of the club are on the team.

These three young men along with their Cavan team mates carry the hopes and aspirations of all the followers of Cavan GAA teams and to see an All Ireland title return to this great football county would be a dream come through for these die hard supporters. Paddy King, Shane Reilly and Darragh Tighe

Cavan were defeated at this level in the Ulster final in 2010 by Donegal but this present team were earmarked as potential champions having failed narrowly at minor level to Tyrone in 2008 the eventual All Ireland Champions. They won the Hastings Cup earlier in the year defeating Roscommon to claim the title. They started their Ulster challenge with a victory over Fermanagh in the first round of the competition and were victorious over Donegal at the semi final stage and then defeated a highly fancied Tyrone team in the Ulster Final in Brewster Park on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-10 to claim the title last held by Cavan in 1996.

Pictured above is the victorious Cavan Team Shane Reilly 5th L-R on back row, Paddy King 7th L-R on back row, Daragh Tighe 5th L-R on front row

~ 75 ~ AN HISTORIC DAY FOR THE LEAGUERS

This was a game of the highest calibre and there were some tremendous individual performances but it was as a team that they excelled with an exceptional unselfish work rate all over the field. Paddy King scored two points late on in this game which helped Cavan get over the finish line and Darragh Tighe lined out at number four with Shane Reilly in the subs. Cavan U21 team celebrate final victory

Three days later the team faced Wexford in the All Ireland semi Final in Parnell Park, Dublin and emerged winners on the scoreline of 1-10 to 0- 8. This team made light of the three day turnaround to claim a place in the final against Galway in Croke Park tomorrow 1st May.

It is a tremendous honour for these lads to represent Cavan in Croke Park in an All Ireland Action from the Semi Final final and for the club we are privileged to have young men who can play the game at the highest level. It is testimony to the efforts they have put in through the years but it is also testimony to a good under age coaching structure in our Club. These three lads are gentlemen on and off the pitch and are a great example to young and old, they have represented the club from age 8 upwards and their abilities were evident even at this young age. They played football at all grades in St. Patricks College Cavan and all of them represented Cavan at Under 16 and minor level and they are an integral part of the Leaguers Senior Division 1 team at present. Darra gh was a member of the DCU All Ireland winning Freshers team and a member of the Killeshandra team that won the Junior Championship in 2007. We all hope to see them along with several other club players wear the Cavan Blue at senior level in the very near future.

On behalf of Killeshandra Leaguers we wish Darragh, Paddy, Shane and all the Cavan team continued success on the playing field and we look forward to you bringing the cup home to Cavan and also on a visit to Killeshandra.

~ 76 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 77 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK

Congratulations to Killeshandra Leaguers GFC on the re-development of their pitch

Best wishes to Killeshandra GFC on the re-opening of their pitch

~ 78 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK ? ? ? ? ? ?

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w w o o e R r

t k e c n t a o r B t F i m m o C

~ 79 ~ OFFICIAL RE-OPENING OF PACKIE DEVLIN MEMORIAL PARK K i l l e s h a n d r a

L e a g u e r s

T o d a y

~ 80 ~